Savory Fig Tart

A savory fig tart is a dish that combines the sweetness of figs with a rustic and tasteful base. Here’s how to prepare a variant of this dish with an Italian twist, using for example goat cheese and cured ham for a contrast of flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 roll of brisée pastry (or savory shortcrust pastry if you prefer)
• 250 g of fresh figs
• 200 g of soft goat cheese
• 100 g of cured ham, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A few arugula or basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
2. Unroll the brisée pastry and lay it in a tart pan, making sure to evenly line the bottom and sides. Prick the bottom with a fork in several places to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
3. Bake the pastry base for about 10-15 minutes, for a pre-bake that will prevent it from becoming soggy.
4. In the meantime, wash and cut the figs into quarters or slices, depending on their size and your preference.
5. Take the pastry base out of the oven, let it cool slightly and spread the soft goat cheese evenly.
6. Arrange the torn slices of cured ham over the cheese.
7. Add the fig segments on top of the ham in a harmonious way.
8. Drizzle the honey over the figs, adding a thread of oil, and then adjust with salt and pepper.
9. Bake the tart again for about 15-20 minutes or until the figs are slightly caramelized and the pastry is well browned.
10. Take out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. If you wish, you can add a touch of freshness with some arugula or basil leaves.

Curiosity

The savory fig tart is an excellent example of how figs can be used in non-sweet preparations. This fruit is highly appreciated in Mediterranean cuisine, where it is included in various traditional recipes that range from sweet to savory dishes. The combination of goat cheese and cured ham is a classic Italian appetizer, but presented in a tart it becomes a sophisticated and tasty unique dish.